Boating & sailing

Take to the water in Victoria. Melbourne makes the most of its location on Australia's largest bay, offering opportunities to learn to sail, take a leisurely cruise down the Yarra River, or head out into the open waters of Port Phillip Bay.

Gippsland is home to Australia's largest groups of inland waterways, and a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Explore the vast lakes, national parks, port-side villages and the Ninety Mile Beach. Further north, the seaside village of Mallacoota is surrounded by the deserted beaches, rocky promontories, wildlife and whales-spotting of Croajingolong National Park.

For a more relaxing water experience, hire a houseboat and wander along the Murray River, past red gums and paddle steamers, and stopping off in historic ports to fill up on fuel and regional food and wines.

Boating licences are required for most boat operators. Persons hiring or chartering a boat may be exempt.